Executive Chef

About Ciccio

In 2023, Chef Christopher Kostow of The Restaurant at Meadowood, The Charter Oak, and Loveski Deli, partnered with the Altamura family to reimagine Ciccio. Now managed by Team Kostow, Ciccio is a Michelin Bib Gourmand Italian restaurant in the heart of Yountville, set in a restored 1916 Italian grocery store. Our menu is California-Italian: wood-fired pizzas, fresh handmade pasta, and seasonal dishes built around produce from our own nearby culinary farm. Learn more at ciccionapavalley.com .

The Role

We're looking for an Executive Chef to lead our kitchen. This is a hands-on leadership role for a chef who loves teaching, takes pride in consistency, and wants to work in a fun yet professional environment. You'll own the kitchen's culture, quality, and financial performance, and you'll work closely with our General Manager and front of house team to create the best restaurant for the returning locals and excited visitors of Yountville.

What You'll Do

Leadership and Team Development

• Lead and mentor a team of line cooks with support from our sous chef, to maintain a high standard for execution and professionalism
• Build a positive, respectful kitchen culture in partnership with the General Manager
• Schedule and coordinate all kitchen staffing

Food and Quality

• Ensure every dish is prepared to standard recipes, with consistent portioning and minimal waste
• Oversee quality control for ingredients, finished dishes, and facilities
• Execute evolving seasonal menu in collaboration with Culinary Director and Chef Christopher Kostow
• Work closely with the farm team to plan our Market Menu around seasonal harvests.

Events and Partnerships

• Execute onsite and offsite events, large and small, with seamless execution and attention to detail
• Support the marketing team in promoting Ciccio and its events
• Create and maintain strong relationships with vendors and partners

Operations and Financials

• Own the kitchen's financial performance, including food cost, labor cost, controllables, and repairs and maintenance
• Keep all prep and storage areas clean, organized, and compliant with health and safety standards

What You Bring

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or similar leadership role
• A genuine love of teaching and developing junior cooks
• Strong organization, communication, and leadership skills
• Deep knowledge of cooking techniques, food preparation, and sanitation
• Sharp attention to detail and the ability to stay calm and lead in a busy kitchen
• California Food Protection Manager Certification (e.g., ServSafe Manager), or the ability to obtain it
• Experience with Italian cuisine, wood-fired cooking, or farm-driven menus is a plus

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $90,000-110,000 per year based on experience
• Performance based bonus incentives
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Dining discounts

To Apply

Please submit your resume and a short note about why Ciccio is the right kitchen for you. We look forward to hearing from you!